Showing posts with label knapp. Show all posts
Showing posts with label knapp. Show all posts

Sunday, January 8, 2012

1/7 Recap: Sundher extends streak, gets tossed

In Saturday action, Kevin Sundher extended his point streak to 12 games with an assist, but Victoria suffered their ninth straight defeat with a 4-3 shootout loss to Kelowna. Both streaks are newsworthy, but it's how Sundher ended the game that had people talking afterwards.

Amidst a high level of frustration, Sundher missed the shootout after getting tossed for attempting to headbutt a taunting Shane McColgan at the end of OT. The two previously came together for offsetting roughing minors as buzzer sounded to end regulation. With his name swirling as perhaps the hottest WHL trade commodity (unless Team Canada scorer Mark Stone is somehow put on the block) and the Royals not taking the ice again until Friday, the game would certainly be a most interesting way for Sundher, the franchise's all-time leading point-getter, to close out his time in Victoria.



Elsewhere, Steven Shipley scored his 11th goal of the year as Niagara doubled Sarnia, 4-2. The 6'3 Shipley has six goals and 14 points in his last 10 games. The Dogs are off until Thursday when they host Barrie.



Mark Pysyk returned from the World Junior Championship and scored his third goal of the year as Edmonton downed Swift Current, 5-3. The 6'2 defender came down the left side late in the second period and stuffed the puck past the Broncos goaltender for his 19th point of the year. The Oil Kings will be in action Sunday when they host Red Deer.



In NCAA play, Drew MacKenzie scored his sixth goal of the year as Vermont dropped a 3-2 overtime decision to Massachusetts at Frozen Fenway. The power play marker extends MacKenzie's career-best point streak to six games. The Catamounts return home next weekend to face Lowell on Friday and Providence on Sunday.



Justin Jokinen avenged a costly penalty the night before by scoring the game winning goal as Minnesota State earned a 3-1 win over Saint Lawrence and a split of their non-league set. The goal, Jokinen's third of the year, was his first game winner since 10/10/08 against Bemidji State.

Connor Knapp made 20 saves for the ninth shutout of his career as Miami swept Michigan State with a 4-0 win. The senior netminder, whose record improved to 5-4, appeared in back-to-back contests for the first time since last January (1/22, 1/28). The RedHawks travel to Lake Superior State next weekend.

Dan Catenacci collected three assists as Owen Sound got past Brampton with a 4-3 overtime win. The speedy center earned helpers on consecutive shifts in the early second as the Attack snatched a 2-1 lead before earning a secondary on the OT winner. The Attack are off until Friday's tilt with Erie.



Nathan Lieuwen stopped 19 of 22 shots as Kootenay was beaten by Moose Jaw, 3-1. The 6'5 keeper has won just three of his last 10 starts (since December 1st) to dip to 17-10-1-2 on the year. The ICE will end the weekend with a Sunday meeting with Medicine Hat.

Colin Jacobs was -1 as Seattle lost to Spokane, 4-2. After missing 26 games while recovering from shoulder surgery, the 6'1 center has gathered fur points (3+1) in his first dozen games of the 2011-12 season. The T-Birds are off until Friday when they visit Kamloops.

Alex Lepkowski finished -1 as Barrie lost to London, 3-2. Colts forward Gregg Sutch missed his fourth straight game with a head injury despite rumors that he had passed his concussion test earlier in the week. The Colts return to action Sunday at Kingston.

In the QMJHL, Jerome Gauthier-Leduc logged a +1 as Rimouski won a 3-2 shootout decision over Baie-Comeau. The QMJHL's leading defensive point-getter, Leduc has gone two games without getting on the scoresheet for the fourth time this season. The Nics are off until Friday when they'll tangle with Rouyn-Noranda.

Brad Navin was even as Wisconsin edged RIT, 2-1. The 6'2 freshman has two goals and two assists through his first 19 collegiate games. The Badgers travel to Mankato next weekend for a WCHA set with Minnesota State.

Christian Isackson did not play as Minnesota lost to Notre Dame, 4-3. The Gophers will play a key WCHA set with North Dakota.

Brad Eidsness served as back-up as North Dakota defeated Clarkson 3-1 at MTS Center in Winnipeg. The senior has started just three of North Dakota's 21 games this season.

***

In the AHL, Phil Varone scored a pair of goals including the game-winner as Rochester defeated Binghamton, 3-2. Varone extends his career-best point streak to six games. He has a ways to go before eclipsing the 16-gamer he posted a year ago while with Erie of the OHL.

Zack Kassian notched an assist in his first AHL game since November 19th, while Shawn Szydlowski added a career-high four shots on goal.

The Amerks close the weekend with a battle against longtime rival Hershey on Sunday.

The Rundown:
Varone: 2G
Kassian: 1A, +1
Foligno: +1
Tropp: 2 SOG
Lagace: 2 SOG
Schiestel: even
Brennan: 3 SOG
Biega: -1
Szydlowski: -2, 4 SOG
Persson: 2 SOG

Saturday, January 7, 2012

1/6 Recap: Henley sparks Val-d'Or victory

Cedrick Henley scored a shorthanded goal and added two assists Friday as Val-d'Or rode a strong third period to a 6-4 win over Drummondville. The game's #2 star, Henley knotted the score then set up the game winner in a span of three minutes midway through the third period en route to racking up his second consecutive three-point effort. The 6'5 captain led all players with four hits. Les Foreurs resume play on Sunday against Quebec.

Steve Shipley scored his 10th goal of the year as Niagara earned a 4-3 shootout decision over Owen Sound. With the game tied 1-1 in the third, Shipley followed-up on a breakaway to bury a rebound. Daniel Catenacci saw his three-game point streak snapped but did record his first fighting major of the year in the early third when he engaged Dogs forward Andrew Agozzino in front of the Attack net. Both clubs will go again on Saturday, with the Dogs hosting Sarnia and Owen Sound welcoming Brampton.



Colin Jacobs scored a penalty shot goal, his third of the year, as Seattle was handled by Tri-City, 7-3. Jacobs' five-hole tally allowed the T-Birds to pull within 5-2 at the end of the second period. The #1 team in this week's CHL rankings, the Ams have now won 12 straight games. Seattle battles Spokane on Saturday.

Kevin Sundher notched two assists as Victoria came up short in a 5-2 loss to Kelowna. The pair of helpers extend the speedy center's point streak to 11 games. Sundher remains the subject of heavy trade rumors at the WHL deadline. The Royals and Rockets will close the weekend series Saturday in Victoria.



Jerome Gauthier-Leduc (4 SOG) saw a three-game point streak come to an end as Rimouski was upended by Baie-Comeau, 3-2. The two clubs will play again on Saturday.

In college play, Connor Knapp was excellent in making 33 saves as Miami edged Michigan State in overtime, 2-1. The 6'6 senior has now won three of his last four starts (going back to the end of November). It's unclear if Knapp, who hasn't played in back-to-back games since last January, will get the nod again in Saturday's rematch.



Brad Navin contributed one shot on goal as Wisconsin doubled RIT, 6-3. Rochester native Mark Zengerle picked up two assists for the Badgers to extend his point streak to an impressive 18 games. Wisconsin will try for the non-conference sweep on Saturday.

Justin Jokinen (-1) recorded three shots on goal as Minnesota State was nipped by St. Lawrence, 4-3. With his team leading 3-2 with six minutes left in the third, the senior forward took a high sticking penalty that resulted in the Saints tying the game on the power play. SLU would add another just 1:16 later to get the win. The teams will play again on Saturday.

***

In AHL play, Rochester got regulation goals from Derek Whitmore, Phil Varone, and Maxime Legault, but was outpunched in an eight-round shootout to finish with a 4-3 loss to Wilke-Barre/Scranton. Jonathan Parker and Paul Szczechura lit the lamp in the shootout before Eric Tangradi clinched it for the Baby Pens.

Varone, a 20-year old signed to an AHL contract during training camp, scarfed up a Marcus Foligno rebound to extend his point streak to five straight games.

The Rundown:
Foligno: A, +1
Szydlowski: A, +1
Tropp: A
Finley: +2
Schiestel: +1
Persson: +1
Lagace: 1 SOG
Biega: -1, 2 SOG
Crawford: -1
Parker: -1

***

In the lone Thursday game, Mark Adams was -3 as Providence played to a 4-4 tie with Massachusetts. The Friars will next host UNH on Wednesday.

Sunday, December 11, 2011

12/10 Recap: CoJac is back

In Saturday WHL play, Colin Jacobs scored a regulation goal and then the shootout game winner to guide Seattle to a 4-3 win over Victoria. Jacobs, who was playing just his second game of the season after missing the first 26 with a shoulder injury, notched his first goal of the season at 10:20 of the middle frame to give the Birds a 3-0 lead. Kevin Sundher clicked for a pair of third period assists as the Royals battled back from the deficit to force extra time. The T-Birds welcome Vancouver to town on Tuesday, while the Royals battle Edmonton on Wednesday.



Badger freshman Brad Navin scored his second goal of the season and added an assist as Wisconsin was beaten by #1 Minnesota-Duluth, 4-2. With 7:19 to play, the freshman lit the lamp on the power play for the second time in as many nights to end the Bulldogs shutout bid. Navin assisted on the Badgers final goal of the night, again with the man advantage, with 2:30 left in regulation. Wisconsin is off until New Year's Eve when they host Team USA U18 for an exhibition in Madison.

Steve Shipley scored his eighth goal of the season as Niagara came up short against Kingston, 3-2. After the Fronts opened scoring at 1:10 of the first period, Shipley replied just nine seconds later to tie the game. The 6'3 center now has goals in two straight for the first time this season to give him eight goals and 18 points and a -11 rating in 28 games. Shipley will look to extend his point streak to four games Thursday when the IceDogs host Erie.



Nathan Lieuwen made 31 saves as Kootenay scored a late power play goal to overcome Medicine Hat, 3-2. The win was Lieuwen's first in five December appearances. The ICE will host Red Deer on Tuesday.

Dan Catenacci notched an assist as Owen Sound pounded Guelph, 6-1. Catenacci is currently tied for 15th in OHL scoring with 37 points (18+19). The Attack return to action Thursday at Windsor.



Gregg Sutch and Alex Lepkowski each finished -1 with a minor penalty (Sutch for an unsportsmanlike and Lepkowski for a check to the head) as Barrie was defeated by Brampton, 4-1. The Colts will tangle with Sutch's former club, the Mississauga-St. Michael's Majors, on Thursday.

Justin Jokinen picked up an assist to go along with four shots on goal as Minnesota State pummeled Alabama-Huntsville, 9-1. Jokinen and the Mavs will sandwich in a WCHA set with Colorado College next weekend before enjoying a holiday break.

Christian Isackson (+1) punched three shots on goal in fourth-line minutes as Minnesota hammered Michigan Tech, 6-2. The freshman nearly connected on his first NCAA goal in the opening period but somehow missed the open net as the line's hard work drew a penalty. The Gophers are off until December 30th when they play Niagara in the first round of the Mariucci Classic.

Connor Knapp watched as Miami lost in overtime to #4 Ohio State, 3-2. The 6'6 senior heads into the break with a 3-4 record, 2.70 goals against average, and .896 save percentage in six starts.

Bead Eidnsess did not play as #19 North Dakota pitched a 1-0 shutout of Nebraska-Omaha. The senior stopper has started just two games thus far for the Sioux en route to posting a 3-1 record, a 2.43 goals against average, and a .918 save percentage. North Dakota will play an exhibition tilt with the Russian Red Stars next Saturday before starting their holiday break.

Saturday, December 10, 2011

12/9 Recap: Sundher, Shipley produce; Navin pots first

Kevin Sundher snagged two goals and two assists Friday to lead Victoria to an 8-5 win over Lethbridge. The four-point outing, Sundher's fourth this season, gives the six-foot center 21 goals and an even 50 points in 31 games - good for 6th overall in WHL scoring. The Royals, who snapped three-game losing streak with the win, will face slumping Seattle on Saturday.


Steven Shipley scored two goals including the game winner and added an assist as Niagara downed Mississauga, 5-3. The 6'3 Shipley, who improves his season production to seven goals and 10 assists while skating on the Dog's top line with Ryan Strome and Freddie Hamilton, has points in two straight games for just the second time this season (he had one four-game point streak that extended into early October). Niagara tangles with Kingston on Saturday.


Brad Navin scored his first NCAA goal as Wisconsin skated to a 3-3 tie with #1 Minnesota-Duluth. The freshman forward put the Badgers on the board with a power play deflection in front of the Bulldogs net at 5:49 of the opening frame. The two clubs will play what should be an exciting rematch on Saturday.



In Finland, Joel Armia assisted on the lone Assat goal in a 3-1 loss to Tappara. Armia, who will play in Saturday's contest against the Blues before joining the Finnish national junior squad, played 11:21 in the loss.


Alex Lepkowski finished +2 as Barrie handled Guelph, 8-5. Gregg Sutch, who was shaken up when pulled to the ice late in the 2nd period, finished -1 for the Colts. Trailing 4-0 in the third, the Storm erupted for four goals in a span of 1:09 to make for a tighter final ten minutes. The Colts host Brampton on Saturday.


Jerome Gauthier-Leduc notched an assist and a season-low -3 rating as Rimouski lost at Victoriaiville, 5-3. The QMJHL's leading scorer among defensemen with 18 goals and 47 points, Leduc will travel across the continent on Saturday to skate in Team Canada's World Junior Selection Camp.


Nathan Lieuwen allowed a goal on his first shot of the game and went allow to all three more before getting the hook as Kootenay lost to Medicine Hat, 6-4. Lieuwen made 13 saves before leaving the game with the ICE trailing at 6:20 of the second period. The teams will return to Medicine Hat on Saturday to finish the home-and-home series.


Colin Jacobs made his season debut as Seattle was shutout by Prince George, 1-0. The 6'1 center missed the Thunderbirds' first 26 games while recovering from a shoulder injury. The Thunderbirds will meet Sundher and the Royals on Saturday.


In NCAA play, Connor Knapp made 27 saves as Miami posted a 5-3 upset of #4 Ohio State, 5-3. The victory, Knapp's third of the season and 34th of his career, snaps the Buckeyes 11-game unbeaten streak. The clubs will complete the home-and-home Saturday in Oxford.


Justin Jokinen produced two shots on goal as Minnesota State defeated Alabama-Huntsville, 4-2. The non-league set will conclude Saturday in Mankato.


Brad Eidsness served as backup as #19 North Dakota dropped a 2-1 overtime decision to Nebraska-Omaha. With Aaron Dell stopping 33 shots in defeat, Eidsness may very well resume his backup role when the series continues on Saturday.


Christian Isackson (infection) did not play as #2 Minnesota lost in overtime to Michigan Tech, 3-2. The freshman, who has played in just four games this season, is expected to remain out for Saturday's rematch.

Monday, December 5, 2011

12/3 Recap: Sutch in the clutch; Cat strikes in loss

Gregg Sutch scored the game-tying goal and then clinched the win with another in the shootout as Barrie edged Niagara, 4-3. A gritty forward with some touch, Sutch has six goals and 11 points in 27 games this season. Alex Lepkowski racked up two minor penalties for the Colts, while Steven Shipley did not factor in any of the Niagara goals.



Elsewhere in the OHL, Dan Catenacci scored a goal and an assist as Owen Sound lost to London, 5-3. The speedy center has four goals and three assists in four games this season against the CHL's top-ranked Knights.

In Finland, Joel Armia earned an assist in 13:10 of work as Assat downed Karpat, 4-1. The big wing now has five goals and three assists in his last nine games.

In WHL play, Nathan Lieuwen stopped 25 shots but Kootenay couldn't muster enough offense in a 2-1 loss to Moose Jaw. Lieuwen's second straight loss drops him to 14-6-2-1 on the year.

Kevin Sundher was -1 as Victoria was doubled by Kamloops, 4-2. The six-foot center has now gone two games without a point for just the second time this season.

In college action, Drew MacKenzie finished -1 as Vermont was swept by Maine, 5-2. The 6'2 defender had scored goals in two straight leading up to the loss.

Christian Isackson recorded two shots on goal as Minnesota rode a three-goal first period to squeak out a 3-2 win over Minnesota State. Justin Jokinen, who continued to man a center spot for the Mavericks, finished even with a shot on goal.

Brad Eidsness served as backup to Aaron Dell as North Dakota earned the road sweep with a 4-1 at Anchorage. The Sioux will host Nebraska-Omaha next weekend at the Ralph.

Connor Knapp watched as Miami lost to Northern Michigan, 5-1. The RedHawks will engage in a home-and-home battle next weekend with in-state rivals Ohio State.

Saturday, December 3, 2011

12/2 Recap: Armia, Leduc post big nights

Jerome Gauthier-Leduc continued to show a boost from being named to Canada's selection camp Friday, notching two goals and two assists as Rimouski earned a 5-4 win over Chicoutimi. The offensive stalwart has collected 17 goals and 44 points this season - both tops among all QMJHL defenders.



Speaking of World Juniors, Joel Armia had his first two-goal game of the year and added an assist as Assat doubled Lukko, 6-3. The 6'3 wing was named the game's #1 star - also a season first. An absolute no-brainer for what could be a stacked Finnish World Junior entry, Armia now has seven goals and 15 points this season.



Drew MacKenzie scored his fourth goal of the season as Vermont lost to Maine, 6-4. The power-play marker gave the Catamounts a 3-2 lead at the second intermission before the Black Bears closed strong with a four-goal third period.



Alex Lepkowski scored his second goal of the year as Barrie downed Erie in a shootout, 4-3. Gregg Sutch was unable to get on the scoresheet for the Colts, while development camp invite Steven Beyers notched a regulation goal and the shootout winner.

Elsewhere, Dan Catenacci logged a +3 for the second straight game as Owen Sound defeated Guelph, 4-1. The Attack will battle a well-oiled London club on Saturday.

Nathan Lieuwen allowed two goals on 11 shots in 16:54 of relief work as Kootenay was bested by Prince Albert, 7-5. Lieuwen surrendered his fifth loss of the year despite playing less than one period's worth of hockey.

Kevin Sundher had three breakaways but did not register a point as Victoria edged Kelowna, 2-1. Despite not scoring, Sundher's all-around effort was rewarded with the game's #2 star.

Cedrick Henley missed his first game due to a broken thumb as Val-d'Or got rocked by Victoriaville, 6-1. The 6'5 wing is expected to miss two-three weeks while recovering.

In NCAA action, Brad Eidsness stopped 26 of 28 shots as North Dakota took a 5-2 decision at Alaska-Anchorage. The start was Eidsness' third of the year and first since October 21st.

Connor Knapp made 13 saves in nearly 50-minutes of action as #18 Miami lost to Northern Michigan, 2-1. The senior netminder, who was originally scheduled to start the contest, violated team rules Friday morning and was punished by sitting the first half of the opening period.

Mark Adams recorded one shot on goal as Providence upset top-ranked Merrimack, 2-1. The two clubs will play it back on Saturday.

Justin Jokinen contributed two shots on goal as Minnesota State lost to #5 Minnesota, 4-2. Christian Isackson was a healthy scratch for the Gophers for the 14th time this season.

Sunday, November 27, 2011

11/26 Recap: Sunder shines with camp spot on the line

In Saturday action, Kevin Sundher scored his 16th goal of the year on the power play and added an assist as Victoria lost an exciting contest to Kelowna, 6-5. At 9:01 of the third, Sundher one-timed a Robin Soudek from the right dot to not only tie the game 4-4, but also tie him for the Chilliwack/Victoria franchise all-time record with 217 points (Ryan Howse). Victoria will next face Kamloops on Tuesday, By then Sundher will know if his ticket has been punched for Canada's World Junior Selection Camp.



Gregg Sutch scored his fifth goal of the year as Barrie came up short in a wild 6-5 loss to Sudbury. Sutch capped a seven-goal third period by scoring with the extra attacker in the final minute. Alex Lepokowski remained out of the Colts lineup with a back injury. Barrie travels to Owen Sound on Tuesday.

Elsewhere, Joel Armia did not factor into the scoring as Assat fell in overtime to Ilves, 4-2. Armia skated for 13:52 despite serving a 10-minute misconduct during the second period. Assat hosts SaiPa on Tuesday.

Jerome Gauthier-Leduc finished -2 as Rimouski was beaten by Shawinigan, 6-3. Rimouski and Gatineau square off on Tuesday. Like Sundher, Leduc is expected to hear his name called when Canada's Selection Camp roster is announced on Monday.

Cedrick Henley was unable to score as Val-d'Or edged Baie-Comeau, 5-4. Les Foreurs are off until Friday when they host Victoriaville.

Steven Shipley did not get on the scoresheet as Niagara doubled Sarnia, 4-2. The Sting were without stud '12 prospect Nail Yakupov, who sat out with a bad back. Niagara and Erie will battle in St. Kitts on Thursday.

Dan Catenacci failed to get a point in his return to his old stomping grounds as Owen Sound cruised to a 5-2 win over Sault Ste. Marie. Catenacci leads the Attack with 15 goals and 30 points through 28 games since coming over from the Hounds in an offseason trade.

Mark Pysyk missed his fifth game with an upper body injury as Edmonton downed Lethbridge, 5-2. A final cut for the 2011 squad, it seems that Pysyk will get an invite to Canada's camp despite the day-to-day ding. The OKs welcome Spokane to Rexall on Tuesday.

In NCAA play, Brad Navin recorded two shots on goal as Wisconsin defeated Mercyhurst, 5-2. The big freshman moved up to left wing on the third line as the Badgers earned the non-conference weekend sweep. Wisconsin will get a weekend off before resuming their WCHA schedule on December 9th versus Duluth.

Justin Jokinen set up the game-tying goal and contributed a productive seven shots on goal as Minnesota State played to a 5-5 tie with Alaska-Anchorage. Despite spending the majority of his career in Mankato down the right side, the senior has continued to open eyes with his special teams work while manning the center position on the Mavs checking line. Minnesota State travels to Minneapolis next weekend to take on the Gophers.

Christian Isackson played even as Minnesota and Michigan State skated to a 4-4 tie. Isackson, who played in just his third game of the year after nine straight scratches, nearly earned a penalty in the second penalty when his stick inadvertently clipped a linesman in the head, forcing the crew to work shorthanded the rest of the way.

At the Denver Cup Classic, Connor Knapp served as backup as Miami won the first place trophy with a 4-2 win over the host Pioneers. Unbeaten in their last eight, the RedHawks return to action next Friday at Northern Michigan.

In the Denver Cup Classic third place game, Mark Adams played even as Providence lost to Princeton, 3-1. The Tigers scored the game winner as Adams sat in the box with an interference penalty. The Friars will next host top-ranked Merrimack on Friday.

Brad Eidsness did not get the start as North Dakota earned the weekend sweep with 4-3 win over Colorado College. Eidsness was excellent in relief of Aaron Dell in Friday's win but the Sioux opted to not let their #1 goaltender get cold heading into next weekend's set at Anchorage.

Saturday, November 26, 2011

11/25 Recap: Armia strikes; Lieuwen stops 'em all

Joel Armia notched his fifth goal of year Friday as Assat downed Ilves, 5-3. Parked in front of the net on a third period power play, the big wing nimbly tipped a shot in for Assat's insurance marker. Armia (13:33 TOI) now has three goals in his last four games. He'll look to keep the upward trend going on Saturday when the two clubs complete the home-and-home at Ilves.



In OHL play, Steven Shipley scored his fifth goal of the season as Niagara defeated Windsor, 6-3. The 6'3 center opened scoring with a power play marker at 5:48 of the first period to end a five-game point slumber. Niagara will visit a tough Sarnia club on Saturday.



Kevin Sundher struck late on the power play as Victoria lost to Kamloops, 4-1. The six-foot center notched his 15th of the year with 3:51 left in regulation to break Cole Cheveldave's shutout. With 38 points in 23 games, Sundher will now patiently wait to get a call when Team Canada's World Junior Selection Camp roster is announced on Monday.



Elsewhere, Nathan Lieuwen stopped all 35 shots he faced as Kootenay blanked Kelowna, 4-0. The shutout, Lieuwen's second of the year and eighth of his career, improved his league lead in the goals against average (1.78) and save percentage (.938) categories. The ICE are off until Wednesday when they visit Saskatoon.

Daniel Catenacci scored his 15th goal of the year but was stoned in his shootout attempt as Owen Sound dropped a 4-3 decision to Sudbury. Catenacci, who now has goals in three straight after scoring in just one of his previous dozen games, will be in familiar territory Saturday when the Attack travels to Sault Ste. Marie for the first time since his trade this fall.



Gregg Sutch (+1) picked up an assist as Barrie thumped London, 6-2. The 6'2 grinder has gone eight games without a goal since getting bumped out of Barrie's loaded top-six. Alex Lepkowski missed his fourth straight game with a back injury.

In QMJHL action, Jerome Gauthier-Leduc posted a pair of assists as Rimouski downed Blainville-Boisbriand, 5-3. The helpers, one shorthanded and the other with the man advantage to set-up Alexandre Mallet's game winner, give Leduc 37 points on the season - 12 more than other QMJHL defenseman. It seems that Canada will look hard at Leduc as an offensive option since Ryan Murphy of the Kitchener Rangers is still sidelined with a concussion.

Cedrick Henley scored the deciding goal in the shootout to give Val-d'Or a 5-4 win over Bathurst. The 6'5 captain hasn't scored in his last seven games. He had gotten a goal in six in previous seven leading up to the slumber. The Foreurs will take on Baie-Comeau on Saturday.

Mark Pysyk (upper body) did not play as Edmonton blanked Medicine Hat, 3-0. The Oil Kings captain has missed the last four games while being listed as "day-to-day", but could get back Saturday when Lethbridge comes to town. There is no question that Hockey Canada wished they had seen a little more of Pysyk before Monday's camp announcement.

At the Denver Cup Classic, Connor Knapp made 19 saves in his first start since October 28th to help Miami to a 6-2 win over Providence. Knapp earned the non-league visit, his second of the season, after serving as backup for the previous six games. Mark Adams, who has yet to record a shot on goal in five games since returning from a lower body injury, did not get in on either of the Friars goals. Miami will face the host Pioneers for the tourney title on Saturday. Providence and Princeton will open the day in the consolation.

In the WCHA, Brad Eidsness stopped all 13 shots he faced in relief of starter Aaron Dell as North Dakota held on for a thrilling 7-6 win over Colorado College. Eidsness, who hadn't seen any action since getting yanked in a loss to Wisconsin back on October 21st, entered the game at 10:54 of the second period after Dell allowed six goals on 22 shots. Eidsness stopping the bleeding should lead to a start Saturday when the teams drop the puck for what is sure to be an exciting rematch.

Justin Jokinen potted a goal and an assist as Minnesota State lost to Alaska-Anchorage, 5-4. The multi-point game was the fourth of Jokinen's four-year career in Mankato, and the first against a WCHA opponent.

Brad Navin recorded a shot on goal as Wisconsin throttled Mercyhurst, 7-2. Navin, who moved to center for the front end of the non-league set, has been solid through his first 14 games in Madison despite producing just one assist. The clubs will complete the set on Saturday.

Drew MacKenzie logged a -2 as as Vermont lost to old friend Colgate, 4-1. The schools were meeting for just the third time since the Catamounts left the ECAC for Hockey East in 2005. Vermont welcomes Dartmouth to town on Sunday.

Christian Isackson was scratched for the ninth straight game as Minnesota lost at Michigan State, 4-3. The freshman has appeared in the Gopher lineup just twice thus far. Minnesota will look for the split on Saturday.

Sunday, November 20, 2011

11/19 Recap: Pair get goals on losing Saturday

Dan Catenacci notched a goal and an assist Saturday as Owen Sound came up short in a 7-5 loss to London. The 5'10 center, who ups his season totals to 12 goals and 27 points, began the year with a 1.22 points-per-game pace but has slid to .71 in seven November contests. The third-place Attack (12-11-1-1) and first-place Knights will play it back on Sunday.

Kevin Sundher scored his 14th goal of the year but Victoria was blown out for the second straight night in an 8-3 loss to Kootenay. The goal gives Sundher 37 points this season, good for fifth on the WHL leaderboard. Nathan Lieuwen got the night off for the ICE (14-5-1-2) , who continue their road trip Sunday at Vancouver. The Royals (11-12-0-1) will begin a short two-game road trip Friday in Kamloops.





Mark Pysyk missed his second straight game with an upper body injury as Edmonton lost Lethbridge, 5-2.. The Oil Kings (12-8-1-2) will again meet up with the Hurricanes again on Wednesday.

In Finland, Joel Armia was -1 as Assat was doubled by Tappara, 4-2. The 6'3 wing, who saw a two-game point streak come to an end, posted three shots on goal in just 11:39 time-on-ice. Armia and the Aces will battle the Pelicans on Tuesday.

In NCAA play, Brad Navin finished -1 as Wisconsin lost at Colorado College, 4-1. The Badgers (5-8-1) will play a non-league set next weekend in Madison against Mercyhurst.

Justin Jokinen had two shots on goal in Minnesota State's 7-3 loss to Minnesota-Duluth. The Mavericks (3-9-3) host Alaska-Anchorage next weekend.

Drew MacKenzie (-2) posted three shots on goal as Vermont lost to Northeastern, 4-1. The Catamounts (1-7-1) will next prepare for a Tuesday night matchup with Massachusetts.

Connor Knapp sat on the Miami bench for the sixth straight game as the RedHawks skated to a 4-4 tie with Bowling Green. Unbeaten in their last six games, the RedHawks (6-6-2) will face Providence next Friday at the Denver Cup Classic.

Brad Eidsness served as backup as North Dakota rolled to a 5-2 win at Bemidji State. The Sioux (4-6-1) and Beavers will close their WCHA series on Sunday.

Christian Isackson was scratched for the eighth straight game as Minnesota shut out St. Cloud State, 5-0. The Gophers (11-3-0) travel to Big ten rival Michigan State next weekend.

Saturday, November 19, 2011

11/18 Recap: Armia pots winner

Joel Armia scored the game winning goal Friday, his third of the year, as Assat downed Ilves, 3-1. Armia, who saw just 11:45 of work in the win but put forth a much better effort than recent tries, now has points in two straight games. The 6'3 wing will look for his second three-game point streak of the year on Saturday when Assat battles Tappara.

In the QMJHL, Jerome Gauthier-Leduc recorded an assist and a game-high six shots on goal as Rimouski was trumped by Quebec, 4-3. After scoring 11 goals in his first eleven games, the 6'1 defenseman has just one in his last eleven. Rimouski welcomes Halifax to town on Sunday.

Cedrick Henley assisted on the game-tying goal as Val-d'Or earned a 3-2 shootout win over Gatineau. The Foreurs are off until next Friday when they host Bathurst.

In OHL action, Steven Shipley logged a +1 as Niagara shut out Kingston, 5-0. The IceDogs outshot the Fronts 37-16 en route to winning their third straight game. Niagara will look to keep it going Sunday afternoon at Ottawa.

Gregg Sutch did not score in a third-line role as Barrie outgunned Ottawa, 6-5. Alex Lepkowski (back) did not play for the Colts, who will travel to Kingston on Sunday.

Mark Pysyk sat out with an upper body injury as Edmonton edged Prince Albert, 4-3. The Edmonton captain is marked "day-to-day", so we'll keep an eye out Saturday when the Oil Kings take the ice against Lethbridge.

Kevin Sundher (-1) did not score as Victoria got hammered by Vancouver, 11-3. The Royals leading point man, Sundher returned to the lineup after missing two games last weekend with an upper body injury. Victoria hosts Kootenay on Saturday.

In NCAA play, Drew MacKenzie picked up a power play assist as Vermont came up short at #16 Boston University, 4-3. With the Catamounts trailing 4-2 in the third, MacKenzie faked a shot before wristing one to the net for a tip past Terriers goaltender Grant Rollheiser. The senior rearguard has points in three of his last four games. Vermont remains in Beantown for a Saturday night tilt at Northeastern.






Justin Jokinen skated even as Minnesota State suffered a 5-2 loss at #8 Minnesota-Duluth. Jokinen, who did not get a shot on goal for the fourth time this season, slid from his usual right wing spot to the center position for the series opener. The two clubs play it back on Saturday.

Brad Navin sent three shots on goal as Wisconsin lost at #5 Colorado College, 4-2. The freshman now has one assist and a -5 rating through his first dozen games as a Badger. Wisconsin will try to earn the split on Saturday.

Mark Adams finished -3 as Providence was defeated by Northeastern, 5-2. The Friars, who entered the tilt undefeated in November (four games), are off until next Friday when they face Miami in the first round of the Denver Cup Classic.

Connor Knapp served as backup for the fifth straight game as Miami pitched a 4-0 shutout over Bowling Green. We'll see if Enrico Blasi stays with the hot Cody Reichard or gives Knapp a nod to keep him warm when the clubs rematch on Saturday.

Christian Isackson was scratched for the seventh straight game as #1 Minnesota was upset by St. Cloud State, 4-3. The Gophers will likely come out flying when the clubs close their set on Saturday.

Sunday, November 13, 2011

11/12 Recap: MacKenzie scores; Leduc tossed

In Saturday NCAA action, Drew MacKenzie scored his second goal of the year as Vermont played to a 4-4 overtime tie with New Hampshire. The senior defender scored with less than a minute remaining in the first period when he knocked an Anders Franzon rebound into the Wildcats cage. The Catamounts (1-5-1) head to Boston next weekend for tilts with BU and Northeastern.

Brad Navin (-1) garnered one shot on goal as Wisconsin lost to #1 Minnesota, 4-1. The game was tied 1-1 after two periods before the Gophers broke off three third period goals to earn the weekend split. Christian Isackson watched from the rafters for the sixth straight game. The Badgers (5-6-1) travel to Colorado College next weekend. The Gophers, whose win was the 300th of coach Don Lucia's career, will play a home-and-home with St. Cloud State.

Mark Adams was +1 as Providence earned the weekend sweep with a 4-2 win over Alabama-Huntsville. The sophomore defender, who missed the Friars first seven games with a lower body injury, has one assist in three games this season. Winners of four straight, Providence (6-3-1) returns to action Friday against Northeastern.

Justin Jokinen was -1 with a shot on goal as Minnesota State dropped a 3-2 decision to St. Cloud State. The senior wing has now gone without a point in his last fives games. The Mavericks (3-7-0) will play a road set next weekend at defending champion Minnesota-Duluth.

Connor Knapp served as backup for the fourth straight game as Miami and Michigan played to a 3-3 tie with Michigan. The RedHawks would win the shootout to earn the extra point for the CCHA standings. Knapp should get a start next weekend when Miami (5-6-1) takes on Bowling Green.

In QMJHL play, Jerome Gauthier-Leduc was ejected in the first period after earning an instigator, fighting major, and game misconduct for a helmet removal violation as Rimouski doubled Victoriaville, 6-3. It was the firast career regular season scrap for the QMJHL's leading defensive point getter. The Oceanic (14-10-0-0) will look to continue their roll Sunday at Drummondville.



Cedrick Henley failed to get a point for the third straight game as Val-d'Or stumbled to a 5-1 home ice loss to Quebec. The 6'5 captain will look to resume his production Wednesday when the Foreurs (10-14-0-2) host Blainville-Boisbriand.

In the OHL, Dan Catenacci finished -2 as Owen Sound won in a shootout over Mississauga, 4-3. The Attack's co-leader in points (11+14), Catenacci did not participate in the three-round act. Owen Sound (11-10-1-1) will host Erie on Wednesday.

Gregg Sutch picked up an assist, his eighth point of the season, as Barrie was bested on home ice by Peterborough, 7-4. Alex Lepkowski was +1 for the losing side. The Colts (8-8-2-1) welcome Sudbury to town on Thursday.

Steven Shipley did not factor into the scoring as Niagara edged Windsor, 4-3. The improved IceDogs (9-9-0-2) will battle Mississauga on Thursday.

In WHL action, Mark Pysyk skated even as Edmonton lost to Kamloops, 5-2. The Oil Kings (11-7-1-2) will next face Prince Albert on Friday.

As expected, Nathan Lieuwen got a night off as creasemate MacKenzie Skapski needed to make just 13 saves in Kootenay's 5-1 win over lowly Seattle. T-Birds center Colin Jacobs remains on the WHL injury report as out one month-plus with an upper body injury. Lieuwen should return to his starting role Sunday when the ICE (13-4-1-2) drop the puck with East Division stalwart, Saskatoon.

Kevin Sundher missed his first game with an upper body injury as Victoria lost to Red Deer, 7-4. Sundher (day-to-day) has been deemed doubtful to play in Sunday's game with the Rebels, making next Friday's game at Vancouver a realistic date for return

Saturday, November 12, 2011

11/11 Recap: Leduc busts out of funk

Jerome Gauthier-Leduc scored a goal and two assists Friday as Rimouski lost a wild 8-7 slugfest to Shawinigan. Leduc, who entered play with just two points in his last five games and no goals in his previous six, continues to lead all QMJHL defensemen with 12 goals and 19 assists in 18 games played. The Oceanic travel to Victoriaville on Saturday.

Cedrick Henley (-2) notched his second fighting major of the year as Val-d'Or was outgunned by Gatineau, 6-4. The 6'5 Henley was challenged by 6'1 Taylor Burke ('12) midway through the first period after laying two solid hits. The Foreurs will host Quebec on Saturday.




In the OHL, Steve Shipley (+2) scored a goal, his fourth of the year, and added an assist as Niagara lost to Brampton, 6-4. The fourth-year man collected both of his points in the span of 11-seconds en route to putting together two straight "plus" performances for the first time all year. Patrik Machac ('12) paced the winners with his first OHL hat trick. Niagara will welcome Windsor on Saturday.






Dan Catenacci was +1 as Owen Sound downed Sarnia, 5-2. The 5'10 center remains tied for 13th in OHL scoring with 25 points. The Attack will tangle with Mississauga on Saturday.

Defenseman Alex Lepkowski and Gregg Sutch (-1) each skated without a point as Barrie lost a 4-3 OT decision to Mississauga. The line of Sutch, Dylan Smoskowitz, and Norm Ezekiel were unable to get any rhythm while playing mostly on the defensive. The Colts host Peterborough on Saturday.

In WHL action, Mark Pysyk played even as Edmonton lost an eight-round shootout to Kelowna, 2-1. Edmonton continues their British Columbia run Saturday at Kamloops.

In college play, Mark Adams skated even on the second pair as Providence pitched a 3-0 shutout of Alabama-Huntsville. The Friars dominated with a 48-21 shots on goal advantage.

Justin Jokinen failed to record a shot on goal as Minnesota State defeated St. Cloud State, 4-2. The Mavericks have won their last two games to improve to 3-6-0 on the year.

Brad Navin played even as unranked Wisconsin upset #1 Minnesota, 3-1. The win was the third of the season for the Badgers over a team ranked in the nation's top-five. Gopher freshman Christian Isackson was scratched for the fifth straight game.

Connor Knapp served as backup as Miami defeated #4 Michigan, 2-1. The RedHawks win was their fourth straight over the Wolverines.

Sunday, November 6, 2011

11/5 Recap: Sundher bags pair; Lepkowski lights first

Kevin Sundher added to his gaudy stat line Saturday by scoring a pair of goals in Victoria's 5-3 home-ice loss to Vancouver. The first came from being in the right spot at the right time to deflect a lucky bounce, and the second from getting to the net with his stick on the ice. The Team Canada hopeful, who has points in his last four, has gathered 13 goals and a league-leading 23 assists in his first 19-games to place 3rd overall in WHL scoring with 36 points.



Mark Pysyk (+3) scored his first goal of the year and added an assist as Edmonton got past Seattle, 4-1. The one-timer from the right point gave the OK's a 3-0 lead with just one second remaining in the first period. Edmonton and Victoria will clash on Tuesday.



Elsewhere in the WHL, Nathan Lieuwen made 26 saves as Kootenay lost in overtime to Red Deer, 4-3. Lieuwen, who has won his previous five starts, moves to 10-2-1-2 on the year while "slipping" to a 1.64 GAA and .941 save percentage. The ICE host Tri-City on Wednesday.

In OHL play, Alex Lepkowski scored his first-ever OHL goal in his 100th career game as Barrie lost in overtime to Saginaw, 5-4. The 6'4 defenseman, who has missed nine of the Colts 17 games this season with a UBI, now has 10 career points over three seasons of play. He arrived in Barrie last season in a trade from the Spirit. Gregg Sutch finished -1 for the Colts, who return to action Friday against Mississauga.

Dan Catenacci finished -1 as Owen Sound lost a 2-1 decision to Belleville. At the 20-game mark, the 5'10 center has scored eight goals and 22 points as part of a line with Jarrod Maidens ('12) and Cameron Brace. The Attack travel to Kingston on Sunday.



Steven Shipley was +1 as Niagara downed Kitchener, 3-1. The 6'3 center, who was a plus-player for the third time this season, has just one point in his last six games and total of 10 on the year. The Dogs return to play Friday at Brampton.

In QMJHL play, Jerome Gauthier-Leduc was +3 with a key shootout goal as Rimouski downed Drummondville, 4-3. After scoring points in his first dozen games, the Q-league's leading defensive scorer has gone without a point in three of his last four. The Oceanic will play a Sunday matinee at Quebec.



In NCAA play, Mark Adams notched an assist in his season debut as Providence swept Vermont, 5-1. Adams, who missed the previous weeks with a lower body injury, (edit:) skated on the Friars second pair. Drew MacKenzie recorded three shots on goal for the Catamounts. The Friars will host Alabama-Huntsville Friday while Vermont next takes on New Hampshire on Saturday.

Justin Jokinen tied a career-high with six shots on goal as Minnesota State doubled Michigan Tech, 6-3. The senior forward has gone without a point in his last three games. The Mavs continue the WCHA schedule next Friday at St. Cloud.

Brad Navin posted three shots on goal as Wisconsin played to a 3-3 tie with St. Cloud State. The fourth-line frosh has one assist thoruhg his first nine NCAA games. The Badgers will host red-hot Minnesota next weekend.

Brad Eidsness served as back-up for the fifth straight game as North Dakota lost to #5 Minnesota, 3-2. The Sioux, ranked #15 nationally heading into the weekend, were swept at Minnesota for the first time in 15 years. They'll look to get back on track two weeks from now at Bemidji State. Gopher freshman Christian Isackson was a scratch for the fourth straight game.

Connor Knapp served as backup for the second straight game as Miami edged Alaska-Fairbanks, 2-1. The Redhawks will welcome Michigan to Oxford for a two-game set starting Friday.

Saturday, November 5, 2011

11/4 Recap: Sundher, Lieuwen continue Western cruise

Kevin Sundher continued his strong start Friday with a pair of assists as Victoria edged Vancouver, 2-1. The slashing center has now collected two or more points in 12 of the Royals 18 games this season en route to amassing 11 goals and league-best 23 assists. The Royals and Giants will play a rematch Saturday in Victoria.



Nathan Lieuwen stopped 29 shots to earn his 10th win of the year as Kootenay toppled Everett, 4-2. The 6'5 netminder improves to a perfect 7-0 this season on home ice. Collecting the win on five days rest, there's a good chance that Lieuwen goes for his sixth consecutive victory Saturday when the ICE host Red Deer.

Cedrick Henley picked up an assist as Val-d'Or defeated Cape Breton, 5-3. The Foreurs fourth leading scorer, Henley will take a four-game point streak into Sunday's tilt at Halifax.

In the OHL, Gregg Sutch posted a career-low -4 as Barrie lost at Plymouth, 4-1. Colts defenseman Alex Lepkowski, who recently returned for two games after missing eight due to a UBI, did not play. Barrie moves to face Saginaw on Saturday.

Dan Catenacci skated -2 with a slashing minor as Owen Sound got pounded by Ottawa, 5-1. Catenacci had points in three straight games prior to the loss. The Attack will lock horns with Belleville on Saturday.

Steven Shipley logged a -1 in Niagara's 4-3 loss to Kitchener. The third-line pivot has been a minus-player in eight of the Dogs 13 games this season. The two clubs will travel to Niagara Saturday to complete the home-and-home series.

In NCAA action, Drew MacKenzie scored his first goal of the year as Vermont lost at Providence, 5-2. The 6'2 defenseman, who missed last weekend's set with Merrimack due to injury, fired from the right point in the opening minute of the third period for the Catamounts final goal of the night. Providence sophomore Mark Adams has yet to appear on the Friars blueline this season due to a lower body injury.

In WCHA play, Brad Navin finished -1 with a shot on goal as Wisconsin was routed by St. Cloud State, 7-2. The 6'2 freshman has one assist through the first eight games of his NCAA career while skating on the Badgers fourth line. Wisconsin will look to avenge the road beating on Saturday.

Justin Jokinen was even with three shots on goal as Minnesota State was shut out at #16 Michigan Tech, 1-0. The senior wing has yet to get it going, scoring a goal and two assists in seven games. The struggling Mavericks will look for their second win of the year when the teams finish the set on Saturday.

Brad Eidsness served as back-up to Aaron Dell (30 saves) as #15 North Dakota was blanked by #5 Minnesota, 2-0. Gopher freshman Christian Isackson was a healthy scratch. With Dell looking sharp in defeat, it's fair to expect Eidsness to again watch from the bench in Saturday's series closer.

In the CCHA, Connor Knapp did not play as Miami slid past Alaska-Fairbanks, 2-1. The win snaps a five-game losing streak for the RedHawks while giving the proud program their first CCHA victory of the year. Knapp has generally been the Saturday night starter for most of the past three seasons, so it's possible he takes the net for the series closer despite a bumpy run last weekend against Lake Superior State.

Saturday, October 29, 2011

10/28 Recap: Leduc streak snapped; Sundher leads pack

Jerome Gauthier-Leduc saw his 12-game point streak come to an end Friday as Rimouski came up short against Shawinigan, 2-1. The 6'1 righty remains the QMJHL's top scoring defenseman, ranking fifth in the league with 26 points (11+15). Leduc's roll was the longest for a Sabres defensive prospect since Kootenay's Brayden McNabb ripped off an 11-gamer last year. Marc-Andre Gragnani posted a 10-game streak for PEI back in 2005-06. Leduc will look to start anew Sunday against Victoriaville.

Kevin Sundher scored a pair of regulation goals, his sixth and seventh of the year, as Victoria lost a 4-3 shootout to Seattle. The two clubs went scoreless for two periods before opening things up with a six-goal third. Sundher opened scoring 23-seconds in with an unassisted shorthanded goal. He'd later force overtime with just 1:25 to play to give him 27 points this season, overcoming Leduc for tops among all Sabres prospects. Per the WHL injury report, T-Birds center Colin Jacobs remains out for a month with an upper body injury. The two clubs will play it back on Saturday.



Gregg Sutch scored a goal and an assist while tossing his weight around throughout as Barrie lost at Brampton, 4-3. The 6'2 checker has four points (2+2) in his last three games, and it's fair to expect those numbers to keep spiking if he continues skating on a line with Winnipeg Jets property Mark Scheifele. Alex Lepkowski missed his eighth game with an upper body injury. The Colts host Windsor on Saturday.



Elsewhere, Cedrick Henley notched two assists as Val-d'Or lost to Halifax, 3-2. The 6'5 forward had five assists in his first 10 games, but has four goals and three assists in five game since. The teams will play a rematch on Saturday.

Dan Catenacci picked up a power play assist but finished a game-low -3 as Owen Sound was edged in overtime at London, 3-2. Seven of Catenacci's 11 helpers this season have come with the man advantage. The Attack host Oshawa on Saturday.

Mark Pysyk logged a -1 as Edmonton dropped their fourth game of the year, falling to the Regina Pats 4-1. Pysyk took a third period cross-checking penalty that resulted on a Dominik Volek ('12) goal to give the Pats a 3-1 lead. The Oil Kings travel to Brandon on Saturday.

In NCAA play, Connor Knapp was pulled after allowing four goals in 27-minutes of work as #16 Miami  lost for the second straight night to #18 Lake Superior, 5-3. Knapp had stopped 11 of 15 shots prior to getting the hook. The Redhawks (2-6-0), who were swept at home for the first time since 2006-07, will look to snap a five-game losing streak next weekend at Alaska.

Brad Navin (1 SOG) committed a costly hooking penalty late as Wisconsin lost to Nebraska-Omaha, 5-4. With Navin off to the box at 18:42 of the third, the Badgers gave up a power play goal with 21-seconds left in regulation to fall to 3-4-0 on the year. The series continues Saturday in Madison.

Christian Isackson was a scratch as #8 Minnesota cruised to a 5-0 win over Alaska-Anchorage. The Gophers and Seawolves will do it again Saturday.

Brad Eidsness served as backup as #12 North Dakota suffered a 4-0 home-ice defeat at the hands of St. Cloud State. It's unclear as of now, but Eidsness could get the nod Saturday as the Sioux (2-4-1) look to earn the split.

Drew MacKenzie did not play due to injury as Vermont opened their Hockey East schedule with a 4-1 loss to #9 Merrimack. The Catamounts and Warriors will rematch on Saturday.

Mark Adams remained out with a lower body injury as Providence lost in OT at Maine, 5-4. The sophomore is likely still multiple weeks away from returning to the Friars.

In the ECHL, Corey Fienhage tapped-in a 2x1 finish for his second professional goal as Gwinnett fell in overtime to Wheeling, 3-2. The 6'3 defenseman has two goals and an assist in six Coast League contests.

Sunday, October 23, 2011

10/22 Recap: Armia pots 2nd; Leduc stays at eight

Joel Armia scored his second goal of the season Saturday as Assat pitched a 4-0 shutout of Jokerit. The 6'3 wing, who may be feeling pressure to produce this season amidst increased expectations, has seven points through his first 15 games. Assat will next face the Blues on Tuesday.





In QMJHL play, Jerome Gauthier-Leduc earned an assist to extend his point streak to 12-games as Rimouski doubled Rouyn-Noranda, 4-2. The talented blueliner, who Friday set a QMJHL record for defensemen with goals in eight straight games, was unable to find the back of the net for the first time since October 1st. The Nics (10-7) are off all week before facing Shawinigan on Friday.

Nathan Lieuwen stopped 35 shots to backstop Kootenay to a 2-1 win over Moose Jaw. The ICE goaltender, who picked up his sixth win of the year, was cruising to his second shutout before being beaten by a slapshot with 27 seconds left in regulation. The ICE (8-3-0-2) have allowed a league-low 26 goals against this season. Lieuwen could get a rest Sunday when Kootenay travels to Calgary.

Kevin Sundher continued his productive early season pace, collecting two assists to help lead Victoria to a 3-2 win over Kelowna. The dynamic center is currently tied for the WHL lead with 19 assists, and ranks fourth overall with 23 points through his first 13 games. The Royals (7-6, 2nd place B.C. Division) return to action Tuesday at Tri-City.

Dan Catenacci saw his three-game point streak come to an end as Owen Sound was defeated by Sault Ste. Marie, 7-4. The game was Catenacci's first against his former 'mates after a late-summer trade landed him with the reigning OHL champs. He continues to lead his new club in scoring with eight goals and 18 points. The Attack (6-8) hosts Sudbury on Sunday.

Gregg Sutch recorded his fourth point of the year, an assist, as Barrie clubbed Kingston, 6-1. Alex Lepkowski remained out of the Colts lineup with an upper body injury. Barrie (6-4-0-1) gets back to work Wednesday at Belleville.

On the college sheet, Justin Jokinen was -2 with a team-best five shots on goal as injury-riddled Minnesota State got smoked by Denver, 10-2. The Mavericks (1-5-0, 0-2-1 WCHA) will take a weekend off before beginning a set at Michigan Tech on November 4th.

Brad Navin contributed a shot on goal as Wisconsin earned the weekend sweep with a 5-4 win over North Dakota. A night after giving up four goals on 18 shots in just over a period of work, Sioux senior Brad Eidsness served as backup while Aaron Dell allowed five goals on 15 shots. The Badgers (3-3-0, 2-2-0 WHCA) continue league play next weekend versus Nebraska-Omaha, while the Sioux (2-3-1, 0-2-0 WCHA) return home to host St. Cloud State.

Connor Knapp made 20 saves while surrendering a pair of power play goals as Miami was shut out by Ferris State, 2-0. Swept and shut out for the first time since January, the RedHawks are now 0-2 in the CCHA for the first time since 2000-01. Miami (2-4-2, 0-2-0 CCHA) will look to fix some things when it returns home to host Lake Superior State Thursday and Friday.

Saturday, October 22, 2011

10/21 Recap: Leduc breaks record; Henley goes Gordie

Jerome Gauthier-Leduc broke a 31-year old QMJHL record for defensemen Friday by scoring a goal in his eighth consecutive game as Rimouski downed Rouyn-Noranda, 5-2. Leduc has really got it cranking this year, potting 11 goals and 25 points through his first 11 games while catching the eye of Hockey Canada scouts. The goal mark mark was previous held by Gaetan Therrien of the Quebec Remparts, who went on to play 22 NHL games for the Quebec Nordiques in the early 1980's.

Cedrick Henley posted a Gordie Howe hat trick, the second of his career, as Val-d'Or doubled Drummondville, 6-3. Henley opened the game with his first fighting major of the year just 6:34 in before potting a goal and an assist in the third period. The 6'5 power forward, who now has goals in two straight games, repeats the Gordie feat first accomplished last October 2nd.





Elsewhere, Kevin Sundher logged a -2 as Victoria got smoked by Vancouver, 8-1.

Mark Pysyk was +1 with four penalty minutes in Edmonton's 8-4 hammering of Portland.

In NCAA play, Justin Jokinen assisted on the game's first goal as Minnesota State lost to Denver, 4-2.

Brad Eidsness made 14 saves before getting pulled early in the second period as North Dakota dropped a 5-3 decision at Wisconsin. Brad Navin was -1 for the Badgers but is gaining the confidence of his coaching staff in the early stages of his freshman season.

Drew MacKenzie finished -3 as Vermont was embarrassed by Minnesota, 6-0. It was the first-ever meeting between the two storied programs.

Connor Knapp served as backup as Miami lost to Ferris State, 4-2.

Mark Adams remained out of the lineup with a lower body injury in Providence's 5-2 loss to Minnesota-Duluth.

Sunday, October 16, 2011

10/15 Recap: Third-rounders shine

Kevin Sundher turned in a #1 star performance Saturday, netting a goal and three assists including a sensational pass on the game's final goal to lead Victoria to a 4-3 overtime win over Kelowna. The four-point night gives the Surrey, BC native an impressive 12 points in his last five games. Sundher, chosen in third round of the 2010 draft (75th overall), leads the WHL with 17 assists and is tied for the league scoring lead at 21 points with Brandon's Mark Stone and Medicine Hat's Emerson Etem. The Royals (6-5) return to action Friday at Vancouver.





Jerome Gauthier-Leduc continued to tear up the QMJHL, scoring a goal and two assists to earn the game's #1 star as Rimouski edged Baie-Comeau, 5-4. Leduc has now scored in a club-record six straight games en route to piling up an impressive nine goals and 21 points in his first nine games. The 2010 third-rounder (68th overall) will look to tie the QMJHL record for consecutive games with a goal for a defenseman on Wednesday when Rimouski (7-7) hosts Val-d'Or.


In the OHL, Dan Catenacci potted two goals and an assist for his first three-point night of the season as Owen Sound lost to Kitchener for the second straight night, 5-3. The 5'10 center currently ranks third in the OHL with eight goals, and eighth in the league with 16 points. The Attack (5-7) travel to Mississauga on Thursday.And yes, Cat was chosen by the Sabres in the third round (77th overall) of this past summer's draft.



Elsewhere, Gregg Sutch was +1 with a pair of minor penalties as  Barrie defeated Sault Ste. Marie, 5-4. Alex Lepkowski missed his fourth straight game due to injury. The Colts shoot out to a 5-3-0-1 mark after nine games, proving to be one of the most improved clubs in the Ontario League after just 15 wins a season ago.

Steven Shipley (-1) left the game with a mild concussion as Niagara lost at Saginaw, 6-4. The big center slips to -10 rating as part the Dogs slow start (17th out of 20 in the OHL), becoming the first Sabres prospect of the season to hit double-digits going the wrong way. Shipley is expected to miss a week of action, meaning he'll likely be absent when Niagara (3-7-0-1) hosts Ottawa on Thursday.

Cedrick Henley recorded a game-high five hits as Val-d'Or dropped a 4-1 home-ice decision to Saint John. The 6'5 wing, who has yet to score a goal through his first nine games, will look to break from his slumber Sunday when his Foreurs (6-6-0-2) against Shawinigan.

Nathan Lieuwen was given a rest as Kootenay downed Prince Albert, 3-1. The ICE (6-2-0-2) travel to Lethbridge on Monday.

In college play, Connor Knapp made 37 saves, the third-most of NCAA career, but #5 Miami was shocked by Colgate in overtime, 3-2. Knapp was spectacular throughout, weathering a slew of penalties and keeping the RedHawks in the game before a power-play deflection ended things in the OT. The RedHawks (2-2) are at Ferris State next weekend.

Brad Navin collected his first collegiate assist in Wisconsin's 3-2 overtime loss to Michigan Tech. An apparent goal by the Badgers during a third period power play was waved off when it was determined that Navin had interfered with the Tech goalie. Wisconsin (1-3) will look to shake off the sweep when they take on North Dakota.

Justin Jokinen scored his team's only goal, his first of the year, as Minnesota State was defeated by Lowell for the second straight night, 4-1. The 6'3 wing cleaned up a scrum to break the shutout midway through the third period. The Mavericks (1-3), who have now lost three straight games, will look to right the ship next week at #3 Denver.

Brad Eidsness gave way to Aaron Dell (25 saves) as #6 North Dakota played to a 3-3 tie with #17 Maine. Eidsness looked sharp in Friday's win over the Black Bears, and with another solid week of practice, should earn at least one start next weekend when the Sioux (2-1-1) host the Badgers

Christian Isackson was scratched for the second straight night as #14 Minnesota won an exciting 5-4 battle over rival #9 Minnesota-Duluth. Fresh off a sweep of the defending NCAA champs, the Gophers (4-0) will begin a set with Vermont on Friday.

Saturday, October 15, 2011

10/14 Recap: Eidsness earns nod, win

Brad Eidsness' recent hard work was rewarded Friday with his first start of the season as North Dakota downed Maine, 3-1. The 30-save victory comes in Eidsness' first home start since October of last year after spending the majority of 2010-11 as backup to All-WCHA first teamer, Aaron Dell. The win, the 51st of the senior's career, snaps the Sioux's four-game losing streak to the Black Bears.





In OHL play, Dan Catenacci (-1) scored his sixth goal of the year as Owen Sound lost at Kitchener, 5-3. The Attack's leading scorer with 13 points, Catenacci slid a puck five-hole at 13:26 of the second period to cut the Rangers lead to 3-2.





In the QMJHL, Jerome Gauthier-Leduc scored his eighth goal of the year as Rimouski lost to red hot Baie-Comeau, 5-3. Leduc, who marked with less than three minutes to play in the game, extends his season-starting point streak to eight games. His 18 points (8+10) lead all Q defenders while ranking 10th overall in the league.

In the WHL, Kevin Sundher had a pair of assists as Victoria stormed back with four third period goals to defeat Kelowna, 7-5. Sundher's first period helpers, the first a secondary and the second off a nifty backhand play in the slot, give the six-footer 17 points through his first ten games, good for second overall in the WHL. His 14 assists are tops in the league. Through his first ten games a season ago, Sundher had just six points (2+4).

Nathan Lieuwen had to make just 16 saves as Kootenay got past Lethbridge, 2-1. The 6'5 netminder improves to 4-1-0-2 on the year with 1.26 goals against average and .952 save percentage.

Mark Pysyk finished even with a boarding minor as Edmonton saw their three-game winning streak snapped in a 6-3 loss to Regina. Pysyk's excellent defensive play was displayed in the second period when he burned nearly a quarter of a Pats power play by controlling the puck along the boards.

In Finland, Joel Armia contributed four shots on goal in Assat's 5-2 win over Karpat. The 18-year old wing has just one goal in 12 games this season to go along with three assists. His icetime has dipped of late, so the big wing will need to up his effort level to boost those numbers.

Elsewhere, Gregg Sutch picked up a power play assist as Barrie lost to Sudbury, 3-2. Alex Lepkowski remained out of the lineup with an undisclosed injury (possibly an upper body deal).

Steven Shipley finished -2 as Niagara got doubled-up by Plymouth, 6-3. Despite his point-per-game pace, the 6'3 center has been a "minus player" in five of nine games this season, contributing to a cumulative -9 on the year.

In the college ranks, Drew MacKenzie scored Vermont's only goal as the Catamounts dropped a 2-1 exhibition tilt to Team USA U18. The senior rearguard found the net with a long wrister on the power play, but the Catamounts have plenty of things to work on before their season-opening series next weekend at Minnesota.

Justin Jokinen notched an assist, his first point of the year, as Minnesota State was defeated by Lowell, 4-2. The senior wing picked his point up as the Mavericks scraped away with the goalie pulled late in the game.

Brad Navin was -1 with a shot on goal in Wisconsin's 2-1 overtime loss at Michigan Tech. The freshman wing, who came close to scoring his first collegiate goal late in the second period, will continue his quest for his first point in Saturday's rematch.

Connor Knapp served as the #2 goaltender as Miami defeated Colgate, 4-3. Knapp is expected to get the start when the RedHawks look for the sweep at Starr on Saturday.

Christian Isackson was scratched as Minnesota edged Minnesota-Duluth, 5-4 in overtime.

Mark Adams sat injured as Providence downed Boston University, 5-3. The sophomore defenseman has been on crutches and is expected to be out of the lineup for the next couple of weeks.

Sunday, October 9, 2011

10/8 Recap: Usual suspects stay warm; Lieuwen shines

Jerome Gauthier-Leduc scored a goal and an assist Saturday as Rimouski was delivered an 8-2 hammering by defending Memorial Cup champion Saint John. The 6'1 defender, who in defeat continued his streak of six consecutive multi-point games, is the QMJHL's top scorer among defenseman with 15 points (6+9). Leduc and Nics will play at Moncton on Sunday.




In the WHL, Nathan Lieuwen made 33 saves, many of the spectacular variety, to lead Kootenay to a 2-1 win over Red Deer. The game's #1 star, Lieuwen maintains his stature as the WHL's top netminder with a 3-1-0-2 record, 1.30 goals against average, and .953 save percentage. The ICE return to action Wednesday when they welcome Edmonton to Cranbrook.




Kevin Sundher notched a goal and an assist as Victoria skated to a 5-4 loss in Seattle. The center drifted into open space to beat Avalanche prospect Calvin Pickard at 10:52 of the third period. Sundher leads the WHL with 12 assists and is currently the league's #2 scorer with 15 total points. He'll look for points in four straight games Monday afternoon at Vancouver.




Mark Pysyk finished -1 as Edmonton lost at Saskatoon, 5-1. The Oil Kings continue their eastern swing Sunday at Swift Current.

In the OHL, Dan Catenacci scored his fourth goal of the year and added an empty-net assist as Owen Sound doubled Erie, 6-3. The goal came off a scramble in front of the net to give the Attack a 3-2 lead. Owen Sound out-shot the Otters by a 61-23 margin. The Attack will next host Saginaw for a Monday matinee.

More than a dozen goals were scored, but neither of Barrie's Gregg Sutch or Niagara's Steven Shipley were able to register a points as the Colts downed the IceDogs, 8-6. Barrie defenseman Alex Lepkowski was a scratch for the second straight game. Niagara will correct some things this week in practice before Thursday's game with Belleville. Sutch and the Colts are off until Friday's tilt at Sudbury.

In NCAA play, Connor Knapp made 19 saves to help #1/2 Miami avenge Friday's loss with a 3-2 come-from-behind win over Bemidji State. The victory was the 32nd of Knapp's career in Oxford. The 6'6 netminder will likely play the Saturday half of next weekend's set at the country club of Colgate University.

Brad Eidsness stopped seven of eight shots in relief as #3 North Dakota was handled by #5 Boston College in the IceBreaker championship, 6-2. Eidsness, who entered the game with under three minutes remaining in the second period, gave up a goal but generally looked sharp in his first attempt to win back time from Aaron Dell. A year ago at this time, the skate was on the other foot as Dell was the one chasing then-starter Eidsness. With the Dell allowing five goals on 15 shots Saturday, don't be surprised if Eidsness gets another look next weekend when the Sioux host Maine.

Justin Jokinen was -1 with two shots on goal as Minnesota State dropped a 4-1 decision to RPI. The Mavericks (1-1-0) return to action next weekend at home against Lowell.

Christian Isackson played his first NCAA contest, finishing even in Minnesota's 6-0 blanking of Sacred Heart. The Gophers open the WCHA schedule next weekend at Duluth.

Brad Navin was scratched in Wisconsin's 3-2 win over Northern Michigan. The Badgers travel to Michigan Tech on Friday.